BusinessEntertainmentLocal NewsScience
What Museveni and UMSC leaders discussed at State House
During the meeting, the leaders hailed Museveni for his commitment to ensuring unity, security, and socio-economic transformation for both Muslims and Ugandans as a whole.
President Yoweri Museveni met with Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) leaders at State House, Entebbe on May 29, 2024. (Credit: PPU)
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Wednesday (May 29) hosted and held discussions with the leadership of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) at State House, Entebbe.
The leaders were led by the Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramathan Mubajje, UMSC chairperson Dr Muhammad Lubega Kisambira, Sheikh Obeid Kamulegeya and Hajjat Sophia Safina Kenyangi, the chairperson of the National Muslim Women Council.
UMSC secretary general Hadji Abbas Ssekyanzi Muluubya was also among the guests present.
During the meeting, the leaders hailed Museveni for his commitment to ensuring unity, security, and socio-economic transformation for both Muslims and Ugandans as a whole.
They also thanked him for supporting them financially in various Islamic activities, particularly the constitutional review and the UMSC elections.
Sheikh Mubajje told the President that the UMSC has embraced the parish development model (PDM) and pledged their full support for all government wealth creation programmes within their structures across the country.
Mufuti Shaban Mubajje (R) and Sheikh Kamulegeya during a meeting with President Museveni at State House Entebbe on Wednesday. (PPU Photo)
“This commitment reflects the UMSC’s dedication to promoting socio-economic development and improving the lives of Muslims and Ugandans at large.”
Mubajje also revealed UMSC’s plans to launch a comprehensive coffee/cocoa planting initiative across the ten Muslim regions in Uganda.
The aim of this initiative is to support the government’s efforts in eradicating poverty.
The UMSC intends to commence the project in August this year, with a target of planting at least 200 acres in each region.
Mubajje requested for government support in the designated regions to ensure the smooth operation of the initiative.
He also appealed for the President’s support for the Union of East African Muslim Councils Conference, scheduled for this September.
From (L) Sheikh Kamulegeya, Mufuti Shaban Mubajje and other Muslim leaders during a meeting with President Museveni at State House Entebbe on Wednesday. (PPU Photo)
The conference aims to foster collaboration and co-operation among Muslim councils in the East African region.
Additionally, the UMSC invited Museveni to the forthcoming “UMSC @ 50” event, scheduled for this December, as the chief guest.
Organizers expect the event to draw over 2,000 attendees, including more than 40 Muftis from around the world.
The UMSC seeks Museveni’s endorsement and support to make this milestone celebration a success.
The Council also requested the President’s support for a Uganda Women Muslim Council function scheduled for this October that aims to empower and uplift Muslim women in Uganda.
In response, Museveni welcomed the Muslim leaders’ support towards the government’s “prosperity for all” programmes.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by some youths, including those associated with the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), he emphasized the importance of providing them with a solid foundation and direction “of how to survive in life”.
He also highlighted the need for young people to learn essential life skills and develop a strong work ethic.
Museveni expressed concern that some young boys, particularly those in ADF who are predominantly Muslim, lack the knowledge and understanding of how to lead productive lives.
He emphasized that the banditry in Congo is not the only path to survival, and it is crucial for the youth to be guided towards more positive and constructive avenues.
“They don’t know how to live, they think the only way to live is being a bandit in Congo.”
Museveni reiterated the significance of churches and mosques in promoting a culture of wealth creation, stressing the need for religious institutions to emphasize the importance of economic empowerment and self-sufficiency among their followers.
Regarding the requests presented by the UMSC, the President pledged his support for the activities and initiatives throughout the year.
He affirmed his commitment to collaborating with the UMSC and other religious organizations to foster unity and socio-economic development.
SOURCE: NEWVISION
